Renal toxicity of nanoparticles of cadmium sulphide in rat

Abstract During present investigations, renal toxicity of CdSNPs (cadmium sulphide nanoparticles) (ranged 5–9 nm) was estimated in rat employing specific parameters. Treatment on each alternate day for 45 days with CdSNPs (10 mg/kg b.w.) yielded significant increase in Cd-MT (cadmium metallothionein), lipid peroxidation and H 2 O 2 generation in the kidney of rat in comparison to bulk cadmium. Concentration of creatinine also increased in urine of CdSNPs treated rats. Histopathological observations revealed extensive damage in proximal tubules. Ultrastructural studies showed mitochondrial, nuclear and ER (endoplasmic reticulum) changes. Finally, renal toxicity of CdSNPs was confirmed by loss of alkaline phosphatase from the brush border of proximal convoluted tubules. These observations conclude that CdSNPs manifest greater toxicity in kidney than cadmium sulphide bulk particles. These effects have been attributed to their specific physicochemical properties, greater potential to generate ROS and induction of oxidative stress and impairment of renal structure and function. Present observations suggest that commercial/industrial use of CdSNPs may pose serious renal health problems in man.